China Hut: From Family Legacy to Hometown Favorite
As we embrace the warmth of summer and the vibrant energy of our communities, there’s no better time to celebrate the backbone of our local economies—our small businesses.
In Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, China Hut recently opened their doors to the neighborhood – deeply rooted in tradition and community spirit. Ying Ling Lian with her family, found it important to give back to the community that raised her and her siblings by opening a restaurant where she saw the community lacked. On April 6, 2024, China Hut’s grand opening exceeded expectations. Over 200 customers visited on opening day, a number that rose to over 300 the next day. By 5 pm, they had completely sold out of key items like egg rolls, General Tso’s chicken, and over 150 pounds of rice. Their journey, they believe, is “a blend of passion, dedication, and the unwavering support of their beloved hometown.”
Join us for an insightful Q&A session with Ying Ling Lian as she shares her reflections on the grand opening of her family’s restaurant.
A Family Legacy
“The story of China Hut traces back to my childhood, where I spent 17 formative years immersed in the vibrant energy of my family’s restaurant. From the tender age of 8, I witnessed the relentless dedication of my immigrant parents as they poured their hearts into building a livelihood from scratch. Those years instilled in me a profound understanding of the intricacies of running a small business and ignited a passion for the culinary arts that would shape my future. My parents taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. Their dedication to our family business inspired me to pursue my passion for the culinary arts.”
Following My Passion
“With a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Penn State Berks, I stood at the crossroads of embarking on a traditional career path and honoring my true calling. At the age of 25, fueled by a burning passion for the restaurant industry, I made the decision to venture into entrepreneurship by founding China Hut. Guided by the invaluable experience of my upbringing and bolstered by the unwavering support of my family, I embraced this new chapter with determination and zeal. I realized that the restaurant industry wasn’t just a profession—it was my passion. It ignited a genuine joy within me that I couldn’t ignore.”
The Grand Opening
On April 6, 2024, China Hut opened its doors to the bustling streets of Fleetwood, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey. The response surpassed all expectations, with eager patrons flocking to savor signature dishes. They were overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response from our community. It was a humbling experience to see so many people come out to support on opening day.
A Hometown Connection
“Being from Fleetwood isn’t just a geographical fact—it’s a part of who we are. Graduating from Fleetwood Area High School and earning my degree from Penn State Berks solidified my bond with this vibrant community. Opening China Hut in my hometown holds profound significance, as many of our patrons have watched me grow up. It’s a privilege to serve so many familiar faces and a testament to the enduring spirit of community.”
Banking on Community
“Our journey wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of Fleetwood Bank. Since 2006, Fleetwood Bank has been more than just a financial institution—it’s been a pillar of support, understanding, and trust. Fleetwood Bank played a crucial role in helping us bring this restaurant to life. They supported us every step of the way, from purchasing the building that houses the restaurant to providing the necessary funds for the construction and renovation work. Without their assistance, we wouldn’t have been able to transform this space into the thriving restaurant it is today. Melissa Grube, the Blandon Branch Sales Manager, stands out as a particularly kind and attentive individual. Her exceptional service and personal touch are the main reasons why we’ve remained loyal to Fleetwood Bank and ultimately selected them for our construction loan. It was a pleasure to work with Tom Bendetti, and we continue to appreciate his dedication and professionalism. Tom understood the importance of our ongoing project. We look forward to continuing our partnership with him at Fleetwood Bank.”
“Banking with Fleetwood Bank isn’t just about financial transactions—it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and trust within our community. Knowing that my bank understands my needs gives me peace of mind and reinforces my decision to continue banking with them.”
Small businesses are the essential of any community, driving economic growth and fostering a sense of identity. When you choose to bank locally, you’re investing in this line of prosperity. Despite its asset size, small and mid-sized banks account for more than half of all small business lending. By supporting local banks, you’re ensuring that your hard-earned money stays within your community, bolstering local businesses and creating jobs.
China Hut’s Promise: “At China Hut, we promise more than just delicious food—we promise an experience infused with warmth, authenticity, and unwavering quality. Our commitment to freshness is unwavering; we replenish our stock daily to ensure every dish surpasses expectations. We’re open to suggestions and dedicated to continually improving our offerings. While we understand we can’t please everyone, we highly value feedback and will strive to address any areas for improvement.”
Operating Takeout Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 11:00 am – 9:30 pm
Closed on Tuesday
Sunday: 12:00 pm – 9:30 pm
